Sir Painter, Anthony Hopkins

Yes, that Anthony Hopkins...

The famed actor, director, screenwriter and composer can now add "painter" to his list of artistic talents. I always get a little skeptical when someone in the movie biz decides to take on another artistic endeavor. It seems fame (and of course money) allow them to experience their curiosity with ease (while other more talented, yet struggling artists, are still at the bottom of the totem pole).

However, it appears that Hopkins does have a keen eye and artistic aptitude for painting. A recent article in the Guardian discusses Hopkins varied landscapes which portray themes of strength and family, and range from traditionally calm vistas to darker, more garish visions. Many aspects and experiences from his life - such as Hopkins' terrifying portrayal of Hannibal Lecter in "Silence of the Lambs" - have influenced his artwork.

Next month (from February 16th - 20th), Gallery 27 in London will display Hopkins' work in his first British show. After that, the exhibition will travel to the Dome in Edinburgh.

Click here to read more about what the Renaissance Man has to say about his life, marriage(s), acting, art, and career... he is pretty amazing.

Spotlight on Croatian Art and Culture

A new volume of 12 essays on Croatia's art, architecture, history and culture is the first English language book and scholarly study of the nation's heritage. It's about time, too because the country - long part of the former Yugoslavia, has a rich history that many westerners know little about.

Croatia declared its independence in 1991 - following a long past of domination by the Romans, Byzantines, French, Hungarians, Angevins, Hapsburgs and Serbs. The country's Dalmation Coast is synonymous with natural beauty (picturesque islands and rocky inlets are encompassed by the clear blue Adriatic Sea).

The book includes scholarly information on Croatia's current "renaissance" and leading British writers and art scholars (including John Julius Norwich, Sheila McNally, Christopher de Hamel, David Ekserdjian and Timothy Clifford) have contributed essays detailing illuminated manuscripts, Renaissance-era buildings, the centuries-long influence and legacy of Italian art on the territory and other informative topics. Marcus Binney discusses neglected castles and manor houses in Croatia's Slavonia region and Brian Sewell informs readers on the museums of Zagreb, the nation's capital.

As a recent article from the Art Newspaper states, the biggest strength of the volume is its detailing of 19th and 20th century Croatian art and architecture.

For information on current art exhibitions and art venues in Croatia, click here.